Hydrogen production plant via an intensified plasma-based technology

Developing cleaner processes via newer technologies will accelerate advancement toward more sustainable energy systems. Hydrogen is an energy carrier and an intermediate molecule in chemical processes. This research investigates an innovative hydrogen production process utilizing a non-thermal Cold Atmospheric Pressure Plasma-based Reformer (CAPR). Exploring environmentally friendly and economically viable pathways for hydrogen production is crucial for addressing climate change and reducing the carbon footprint of industrial processes. The study investigates the conversion of natural gas to hydrogen at ambient temperature and pressure, highlighting the ability of plasma-based technology to operate without direct CO₂ emissions.

Initially, through experimental studies, natural gas was passed through the CAPR, where the plasma's energetic discharges initiate the reforming process. Subsequently, the produced hydrogen, along with other light hydrocarbons, enters the separation system for producing purified hydrogen. The research focuses on techno-economic analyses and sensitivity assessments to determine the levelized cost of producing hydrogen via a nanosecond plasma-based refining plant and benchmark technologies. Sensitivity analyses identify two primary factors that significantly affect the levelized cost of hydrogen production in a plasma-based reforming system.

The research suggests that instead of producing carbon dioxide and capturing the emitted CO₂, utilize processes that do not emit direct CO₂. CAPR shows potential for cost competitiveness with conventional hydrogen production methods, including steam methane reforming (SMR) and electrolysis. The findings underscore the need for further research to optimize the system's performance and cost-effectiveness, positioning CAPR as a potentially transformative technology for the chemical process industry.